What is a Hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the uterus. The uterus or womb is the organ where blood and tissue shed from during menstruation. It is also the organ that fetal development occurs during pregnancy. This surgery can be total (removal of the entire uterus and cervix) or subtotal (removal of the uterus but not the cervix). Cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects it to the vagina. Ovaries are typically preserved in hysterectomy for benign indications. Hysterectomy is typically performed to treat various gynaecological conditions, such as fibroids, adenomyosis, heavy menstrual bleeding, or cancer.
If you are seeking expert care and advice from a Hysterectomy Surgeon in Melbourne, please call us.
What are the Indications for a hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy is advised for a range of gynaecological issues. Common indications include:
- heavy or painful periods
- fibroids
- adenomyosis
- endometriosis
- prolapse
- endometrial hyperplasia
- endometrial/uterine cancer
What types of procedures may be performed for a hysterectomy?
A Hysterectomy can be performed using a number of methods. Open incision involves a large cut in the abdomen, while vaginal hysterectomy is performed through the vaginal opening. Laparoscopic or “key-hole” surgery uses small incisions and a camera. Robotic hysterectomy, a specialised form of laparoscopy, integrates advanced robotic technology, enhancing vision, precision and control. Therefore, more complex cases such as large fibroid uterus can be performed through minimally invasive route, rather than large incision in the abdomen. Dr Kuswanto’s expertise centres specifically on robotic hysterectomy, ensuring utmost care and optimal outcomes.
What are the advantages of minimally invasive robotic hysterectomy over other types of procedures?
A vast majority of hysterectomies can now be safely performed robotically, therefore allowing:
- Less pain
- Less blood loss during operation
- Lower risk of infection
- Lower risk of clot formation in legs (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolus) after surgery
- Less scar tissue formation
- Quicker recovery – usually 1-2 nights in the hospital, and returning to work in 2-3 weeks (depending on type of hysterectomy)
If you have been recommended to have an open incision on the abdomen for non-cancerous cases, ask your doctor or gynaecologist for a second opinion. You may be suitable for minimally invasive surgery. If so, Dr Kent Kuswanto is available for consultation for any robotic hysterectomy in Melbourne.
For patients undergoing robotic hysterectomy in Melbourne with Dr Kuswanto
How can I prepare for a hysterectomy?
1-2 weeks before your surgery
Present to any Melbourne Pathology centres (list of addresses behind Melbourne Pathology form) for pre-operative blood tests – checking your blood counts, kidney and liver function, clotting profile and blood group and hold (in case you need blood transfusion). Please do not go to other pathology centres as the hospital you have been booked to have surgery in – Epworth uses Melbourne Pathology as their provider. Please stop blood thinning medications such as aspirin at least 7 days before the surgery. This also includes fish oil, ginkgo, ginger, garlic supplements. Please let us know if you are on long term prescription blood thinning medications.
2 days before your surgery
Have soft light diet that is easily digestible until your surgery. Nothing too chunky.
Do I have to fast before my hysterectomy procedure?
Start fasting at least 6 hours before the planned surgery time. This means nothing by mouth – no food, no water/fluid, no chewing gum. However, you can take your usual medications if needed by sips of water as early as possible.
After the surgery – in the hospital
After surgery, Dr. Kuswanto will inform your next of kin about your status. Pain and nausea medication will be administered, along with a blood-thinning injection to reduce clot risks. A urinary catheter, if used, is removed the following morning, and blood tests are conducted. You may experience some pain, fatigue, and light vaginal bleeding during this time. Your medical team will manage pain and monitor your vital signs. Patients are encouraged to move and can usually be discharged after one night. A specialist may oversee your care if you have existing conditions.
After the surgery – following discharge from hospital
After surgery, patients may experience shoulder tip pain due to diaphragm stretching, this usually resolves within a few days. It’s important to keep dressings dry and note that sutures are self-dissolving. You may remove your dressings after 7 days. Some vaginal bleeding is normal for up to 6 weeks. Avoid vaginal insertions for 6-8 weeks for healing. Heavy lifting, straining and sexual intercourse should be avoided during this time. Refrain from driving for 2 weeks and check with your insurer. Return to work varies by job type, typically 2-3 weeks post-surgery, with a medical certificate provided for recovery duration.
What is the recovery process like?
To optimise your hysterectomy recovery, you should rest, restrict physical activity, and follow all medical advice provided by your surgeon. Read our blog on Recovery After a Minimally Invasive Hysterectomy to learn more.
Your follow-up visit
Follow-up appointments are normally booked at 2 weeks and 6 weeks after the surgery. Kent will discuss all the findings of the surgery. Again, please ask as many questions as you can, writing a list and bringing it up in your consult is a good way to remember all the questions.
